Farewell to Cheeky the Bush Stone-curlew

We never know what each day will bring when caring for wildlife. It could be a quiet day or
it could be mayhem. Lately it’s mainly been mayhem. Our volunteer hotliners, transporters
and carers do a great job. The WILVOS support network is an integral part of this, as we all
work together to ensure the best outcome for our native animals.
With all the volunteer hours put in by so many it was sad to hear of a fellow-wildlife carers
car being stolen, trashed and the equipment taken. William is a member of WILVOs and the
founder of Wildlife Noosa. It’s a long and continual process building up a carful of wildlife
rescue equipment. To have it all stolen or destroyed so quickly and thoughtlessly is
heartbreaking.
On a brighter note, a highlight of the week was taking Cheeky, the bush stone-curlew, off to
the release site. Such elegant, beautiful birds that so rarely come into care. This year has
been different. A curlew was found in a Woombye back yard close to the town centre. Last
week a curlew set itself up in the alcove of a shopfront in Currie Street, Nambour. Being
nocturnal birds they are happy to relax anywhere during the day. Hopefully people and
domestic pets stay away from them, as they need their rest! When evening arrives they are
off on their way again foraging for food. All the birds are doing a great job at the moment,
eating the garden insects along with playing in the bird baths.
The trees are full of nesting birds and the wind is a little strong for some. It is lovely to see
the chicks reinstated in a manmade nest, with parents soon arriving to feed them. Often they
have to be brought in overnight which is probably confusing for the parents when their young
reappear early morning in a different nest. They are always observed to ensure they are being
fed.
Donna Brennan Wildlife Volunteers Assoc Inc (WILVOS) PO Box 4805 Sunshine Coast
Mail Centre Q 4560 PH 5441 6200 www.wilvos.org.au